There are plenty of organizations offering support to veterans. The harder part is figuring out which one can help with the problem you’re trying to solve.
Start with the need: a VA claim, a civilian job, health care, financial pressure, or a way to connect with people in your community. Then look for the organization whose services match it.
These ten resources offer different kinds of support. Program requirements and availability vary, so check the organization’s current information before making plans around a particular service.
1. Veterans of Foreign Wars: Claims Assistance
The VFW has helped me file multiple VA disability claims, including claims related to the PACT Act. I became a life member, and my experience with its claims assistance has been positive.
VFW accredited service officers provide claims assistance free of charge. You don’t have to treat membership eligibility and eligibility for claims assistance as the same question. Ask a service officer what documents to bring and what help is available for your situation.
2. The American Legion: Benefits Help and Local Connections
The American Legion offers access to service officers and a network of local posts. It can be a starting point for benefits questions and opportunities to meet other veterans.
Check the services and activities at the post near you. Local offerings vary, and joining an organization isn’t the same as applying for a specific assistance program.
3. Wounded Warrior Project: Programs for Eligible Warriors
Wounded Warrior Project offers programs addressing areas such as mental health, physical wellness, and support after service.
Review its registration criteria before assuming every veteran qualifies. Once you know whether you’re eligible, ask which program fits your needs and how to get started.
4. Team Rubicon: Disaster Response and Service
If you want to use your experience in service to others, explore Team Rubicon. Its volunteers support disaster response and humanitarian work.
Look at the training, time commitments, and requirements for the opportunities that interest you. Volunteering can be a way to contribute and build connections, but it isn’t a substitute for employment or clinical care.
5. PsychArmor: Education for the People Supporting Veterans
PsychArmor provides education about military culture and supporting the military-connected community.
It may be particularly useful for employers, caregivers, family members, and organizations that want to understand veterans’ experiences better. Think of it as an educational resource rather than a place to apply for VA benefits or receive medical treatment.
6. Operation Homefront: Financial and Housing Assistance
Operation Homefront offers programs that include financial assistance and housing support for eligible military families.
Each program has its own requirements. Review those requirements and the application process before assuming assistance will be available or arrive by a particular date.
7. Hire Heroes USA: Civilian Career Preparation
Hire Heroes USA provides employment support for veterans and military spouses, including help with resumes and job-search preparation.
Come prepared with the kinds of roles you’re considering and the experience you need help explaining. Career assistance can improve your preparation, but it doesn’t guarantee a job offer.
8. Travis Manion Foundation: Community and Continued Service
If you knew The Mission Continues from an older version of this list, its organization has changed. Travis Manion Foundation acquired The Mission Continues in September 2025.
Use the official acquisition and program updates to find current information. Explore opportunities to connect, lead, and serve through the combined organization rather than relying on an old fellowship or program listing.
9. Crisis Support: Help When You Need It
If you’re in suicidal crisis or emotional distress in the United States, call 988. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides crisis counseling and referrals, with specialized support available for veterans.
For ongoing health concerns, work with a qualified care provider to establish the treatment and follow-up you need.
10. Department of Veterans Affairs: Health Care and Benefits
The VA has played an important role in my health care since I left the Army. It also administers programs for education, disability compensation, home loans, and other needs.
Start at VA.gov and review the program that applies to your situation. Eligibility differs by benefit, and applying for one doesn’t automatically enroll you in all the others.
Pick One Useful Next Step
You don’t need to contact all ten organizations. Choose the one that best matches your most immediate need, read its requirements, and make the first call or application.
Keep a record of who you spoke with and what happens next. If that organization can’t help, ask whether it can point you toward one that can.
